Best Tent Camping near Austin, TX

Tent camping options near Austin range from lakeside locations to wooded sites within an hour's drive of the city. Tejas Park and Shaffer Bend Recreation Area offer tent-specific sites with varying levels of amenities and lake access along Lake Georgetown and Lake Travis respectively. Both locations provide opportunities for primitive camping experiences while remaining within reasonable distance of urban conveniences.

Most tent sites feature designated pads with fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Tejas Park provides basic restrooms with toilets and water access near the park host's site, while primitive locations like Shaffer Bend rely on portable toilets with limited or no drinking water. A camper noted that "the sites have a pad to set up your tent, along with fire rings and plenty of shade." During summer months, temperatures can be unforgiving, particularly at exposed sites, making tree coverage a valuable feature when selecting a campsite. Most locations require advance reservations through recreation.gov, though some operate on a first-come, first-served basis with self-registration.

The tent camping experience in the Austin area centers around water access, with many sites situated near Lake Travis, Lake Georgetown, or the Colorado River. Walking trails connect many campgrounds, with the 26-mile Goodwater Loop trail circling Lake Georgetown and passing directly through Tejas Park. "The Goodwater trail is a loop trail that circles Lake Georgetown and runs about 28 miles. When backpacking the Goodwater Loop people typically start/park at either Tejas Park Trailhead," wrote one visitor. Sites tend to fill quickly on weekends, especially during spring and fall when temperatures are more moderate. Weekday camping often provides more solitude, with some visitors reporting completely empty campgrounds midweek. Water-based activities including fishing, kayaking, and swimming are accessible from most tent sites, though water levels can fluctuate significantly based on rainfall and drought conditions.

Best Tent Sites Near Austin, Texas (27)

    1. CampEZ in SxSouth Austin

    2 Reviews
    Sunset Valley, TX
    7 miles

    $25 / night

    "EZ fun Austin stop. Cute friendly donkeys !"

    "I came from Denver for a conference in downtown Austin and I found a park that I thought I could camp that and that did not work out."

    2. Covenant Canyon RV Park

    1 Review
    Buffalo Gap, TX
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 331-0900

    "Close to everything you need. Nice neighbors keep to themselves. It's not a luxury type place but that's the good part."

    3. Tejas Park

    10 Reviews
    Liberty Hill, TX
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 930-5253

    $10 - $16 / night

    "I've camped at this campground a number of times while hiking around The Goodwater Trail.

    There is a basic restroom with toilets. There is a water faucet near the Park Host's trailer."

    "It’s at the head of a trail, just near the river. If you want, you can easily walk down to the river and hike along it."

    4. Grelle - Lake Travis

    6 Reviews
    Spicewood, TX
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 776-5272

    "Gorgeous trails with no end to photo ops. A pups happy place! Picnic tables and bbq grills provided. Friendly park host to answer all your questions."

    "As you walk into the lake (walk fast if you dont want to get bitten) you will find pockets if cooler water spouting up. Its kinda like stepping into a refridgerator but underwater."

    5. Turkey Bend

    4 Reviews
    Spicewood, TX
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 473-3366

    "We were seeking a free campsite for us and our dogs when traveling from San Antonio to Austin, Texas and landed here for one night!"

    "Our first night was at a site very near the neighboring sites. It wasn’t very private or peaceful. The next morning we asked to move."

    6. Russell Park

    4 Reviews
    Georgetown, TX
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 930-5253

    $80 / night

    "These are drive up campsites where you may park your car next to your assigned site. The campsites have a sun awning, picnic table, campfire pit/grill. "

    "Not every site works for hammock camping, as some lack trees the required distance apart.

    Men's restroom was decently clean, shower worked well."

    7. Shaffer Bend Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    Spicewood, TX
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 473-3366

    "The site we had was walking distance to the sandy beach of lake Travis. Great fishing and the sand carrier up so it’s a soft bedding for the evening. Lots of tree cover to help combat the sun."

    "We set up at site 15 it has an awesome view of the river/lake and it’s walking distance down to the waters edge. Great spot to fish for some bass or take a dip in the water."

    8. Muleshoe Bend - Lake Travis

    1 Review
    Spicewood, TX
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 776-5272

    "Within an hour’s drive of Austin, this area offers a quick getaway spot to get out into nature."

    9. Camp Creek Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Marble Falls, TX
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (512) 473-3366

    "Was planning on tent camping nearby and left a day early and all the hotel room were booked. Tried finding a tent site and no luck. Found this place online and figured I'd give it a shot."

    "Discover serene landscapes and exciting activities like Slope Unblocked, perfect for all ages. Whether you're RVing or camping, our amenities ensure a comfortable stay."

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Showing results 1-10 of 27 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Austin, TX

898 Reviews of 27 Austin Campgrounds



Guide to Austin

Austin, Texas, offers a variety of tent camping options that allow you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the vibrant local culture. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there's a spot for you.

Tips for tent camping near Austin

  • WyldStay Muleshoe Bend provides a serene riverside experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
  • CampEZ in SxSouth Austin is a great choice for families, featuring friendly donkeys and easy access to Austin's attractions.
  • Covenant Canyon RV Park offers spacious sites surrounded by trees, making it ideal for those who appreciate a quiet, wooded environment.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • At Muleshoe Bend - Lake Travis, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and fishing along the beautiful Colorado River.
  • Tejas Park is perfect for families, featuring trails for hiking and swimming opportunities in the nearby lake.
  • Shaffer Bend Recreation Area offers a sandy beach area for relaxing and fishing, along with scenic views of Lake Travis.

Unique campground features to explore

  • SHAMBA Farm provides a unique permaculture experience, complete with amenities like drinking water and picnic tables.
  • Cypress Valley features beautiful accommodations and is known for its picturesque surroundings, making it a great spot for a peaceful retreat.
  • Turkey Bend allows you to camp right by the water, offering both secluded sites and areas for socializing with fellow campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Austin, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Austin, TX is CampEZ in SxSouth Austin with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Austin, TX?

TheDyrt.com has all 27 tent camping locations near Austin, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.